This section is provided to give those who have never been to Maine some idea of what to expect from the infamous Maine Black Fly as well as the age old human nemesis the mosquito.

Peak Black Fly season usually starts around mid-May and is generally over (except for a few that don't get the word) by the end of June. Black Flies breed in running water, so areas with brooks and streams are likely to be areas where you will encounter them.

Black Flies like calm, sunny days. They are not active on rainy days and if it is breezy they are unable to fly. That is why you will find very few if any Black Flies on the rocks along the shore. Usually the sea breezes keep them away. The same is true on many mountain trails where the wind is brisk.

Expert Advice on How To Protect Yourself

Experts recommend the following tactics for minimizing exposure to Black Fly bites:

• wear light-colored clothing
• wear long-sleeved T-shirts (rather than buttons and cuffs)
• tuck your pants into your socks
• wear a hat

Stan's Advice: While not a Black Fly expert I suggest you follow the above suggestions and bring along your favorite insect repellent. Don't use it until you find you need to because in many cases you will not need it. If you venture into heavily wooded or shaded areas you will most likely need your repellent. I like OFF! Skintastic Spray because it smells good and it is non-greasy. I find I need to apply it more frequently when I am hiking and working up a sweat. It is easy to carry and is very effective for me.

Unlike the Black Fly, Mosquitoes are around most of the summer. They seem to be most prevalant in early summer when the days are still cool and there are large numbers of wet areas where they can breed. Mosquitoes breed in still water in marshy areas and along the shore of small ponds. They do not like hot days and do not fly on windy days.

I have found you can protect yourself from Mosquitoes with the same tactics suggested for protecting yourself from Black Flies. I use the same repellent and it seems to do the job for me.

And, just like the Black Fly, Mosquitoes are less likely along the shore because a brisk wind is more common. However, be prepared, if there is no wind then the mosquitoes will be just as prevalent there as inland.

While mosquitoes can be found almost all year round, they seem to be non-existant in late August and through September and October.

If you come prepared you will spend more time looking at the butterflies.

As you walk along the miles of trails take the time to look down and inspect the many beautiful wild flowers and the butterflies they attract.